{"product_id":"original-u-s-civil-war-23rd-massachusetts-infantry-regiment-inscribed-presentation-cased-metropolitan-police-revolvers-to-lt-william-j-creasey-with-accessories-and-research","title":"Original U.S. Civil War 23rd Massachusetts Infantry Regiment Inscribed Presentation Cased Metropolitan Police Revolvers To Lt. William J. Creasey with Accessories and Research","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"456\" data-start=\"418\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"456\" data-start=\"418\"\u003eOriginal Items – One of a Kind Set. \u003c\/strong\u003eOffered here is a truly exceptional and historically significant pair of Civil War–era Metropolitan Arms Co. .36 caliber Police percussion revolvers, presented to \u003cstrong data-end=\"647\" data-start=\"621\"\u003eLt. William J. Creasey\u003c\/strong\u003e of the \u003cstrong data-end=\"695\" data-start=\"655\"\u003e23rd Massachusetts Infantry Regiment \u003c\/strong\u003efor his service at the \u003cstrong\u003eBattle of Roanoke\u003c\/strong\u003e and the \u003cstrong\u003eBattle of New Bern\u003c\/strong\u003e. From his obituary: \"\u003cem\u003eOn President Lincoln's call for volunteers, on the breaking out of the war, Mr. Creasey raised a company of volunteers and started out to fight for the principles of his country. After remaining a short time he returned and organized a company from Newburyport which afterwards joined a New York regiment and the Burnside Expedition in North Carolina.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"456\" data-start=\"418\"\u003eBoth revolvers remain in excellent condition and are housed in a beautiful custom wood presentation case lined in blue velvet plush fabric, complete with outstanding period accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"1127\" data-start=\"1076\"\u003ePresentation Inscription \u0026amp; Civil War Attribution\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1194\" data-start=\"1129\"\u003eRevolver serial number \u003cstrong data-end=\"1160\" data-start=\"1152\"\u003e6788\u003c\/strong\u003e bears the presentation engraving:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1285\" data-start=\"1196\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1242\" data-start=\"1196\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eWm J. Creasey, Newburyport, October 1861\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e on the back of the grip strap, with additional inscription on the bottom of the grip strap:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-end=\"1331\" data-start=\"1287\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1331\" data-start=\"1287\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRoanoke, Feb 8\/62\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"1310\" data-start=\"1307\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMarch 14, Newburn\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1526\" data-start=\"1333\"\u003eLt. Creasey enlisted on September 11, 1861, and served until July 24, 1862, when severe illness forced him from service. The inscriptions commemorate the key engagements of his military career:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1579\" data-start=\"1530\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1577\" data-start=\"1530\"\u003eThe Battle of Roanoke Island – February 8, 1862\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1621\" data-start=\"1582\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1621\" data-start=\"1582\"\u003eThe Battle of New Bern – March 14, 1862\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1852\" data-start=\"1623\"\u003eBoth were decisive early Union victories during Gen. Ambrose Burnside’s North Carolina Expedition. These battles secured key waterways and supply centers for the Union and tightened federal control along the North Carolina coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2046\" data-start=\"1854\"\u003eAs the dates engraved on the revolver predate their manufacture, this pair was presented to Lt. Creasey after he returned home, honoring his service and participation in these pivotal battles. Internet research has confirmed that he was presented other arms by the people of Newburyport, including a Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine on June 11, 1869, as well as apparently at least one other gun, and possibly more. The Coastal city, located in Essex County, Massachusetts, had a population of around 13,000 in the Civil War Era, and Creasey must have been very well respected in the community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2166\" data-start=\"2048\"\u003eThe set includes research materials on Lt. Creasey and the 23rd Massachusetts Infantry, fully documenting his service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"2206\" data-start=\"2173\"\u003eCondition \u0026amp; Mechanical Details\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2356\" data-start=\"2208\"\u003eThere are two revolvers in the set, both in excellent condition, showing little use in service, though displaying honest wear from age and cleaning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2397\" data-start=\"2360\"\u003eBores on both are virtually unfired\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2427\" data-start=\"2400\"\u003eBoth are fully functional\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2497\" data-start=\"2430\"\u003eNeither has a half-cock position, which may be part of the design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2566\" data-start=\"2500\"\u003eBoth retain significant original bluing on barrels and cylinders\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2601\" data-start=\"2569\"\u003eCase-colored frames have faded\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2650\" data-start=\"2604\"\u003eSilver plating on the frames shows some wear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"2734\" data-start=\"2653\"\u003eGrips are in excellent condition, retaining all original “Piano Varnish” finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2851\" data-start=\"2736\"\u003eThese were presentation pieces and likely spent little time out of their case, though they may have been displayed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"2910\" data-start=\"2858\"\u003eRevolver #1 – Serial 6788 (Presentation Engraved)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3106\" data-start=\"2912\"\u003eThis revolver represents the earlier unmarked variation without the Metropolitan barrel address. Aside from serial numbers, the only marking is \u003cstrong data-end=\"3067\" data-start=\"3056\"\u003e“36CAL”\u003c\/strong\u003e on the left side of the trigger guard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3184\" data-start=\"3110\"\u003eKnown serial range for these unmarked revolvers: 11xx–18xx and 1950–2400\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3252\" data-start=\"3187\"\u003eFive-shot fluted cylinder serial: \u003cstrong data-end=\"3229\" data-start=\"3221\"\u003e2125\u003c\/strong\u003e (within known range)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3332\" data-start=\"3255\"\u003eAll other parts (wedge, arbor pin, lever marked “88”) are numbered \u003cstrong data-end=\"3330\" data-start=\"3322\"\u003e6788\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3385\" data-start=\"3335\"\u003eHighest known recorded Police model serial: 3850\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3639\" data-start=\"3387\"\u003eWe assume the cylinder serial (2125) is the correct number, and that the 6788 markings were applied in error, as they exceed known Metropolitan Police serial ranges. Due to limited surviving company records, this remains an unsolved historical mystery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"3691\" data-start=\"3646\"\u003eRevolver #2 – Serial 1863 (Fully Matching)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3742\" data-start=\"3693\"\u003eThis example features the correct barrel address:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3780\" data-start=\"3744\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3780\" data-start=\"3744\"\u003eMETROPOLITAN ARMS Co. NEW - YORK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3822\" data-start=\"3784\"\u003e“36CAL” marked on left side of frame\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3871\" data-start=\"3825\"\u003eSerial number \u003cstrong data-end=\"3847\" data-start=\"3839\"\u003e1863\u003c\/strong\u003e matching on all marked parts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3903\" data-start=\"3874\"\u003eLoading rammer stamped “63”\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"3935\" data-start=\"3906\"\u003eCylinder arbor pin unmarked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3997\" data-start=\"3937\"\u003eA fine and correct example of the Metropolitan Police model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"4053\" data-start=\"4004\"\u003eCustom Cased Presentation Set with Accessories\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4112\" data-start=\"4055\"\u003eThe custom wood presentation case measures approximately: \u003cstrong data-end=\"4144\" data-start=\"4114\"\u003e11 3\/8\" x 10 1\/4\" x 2 1\/8\". \u003c\/strong\u003eInterior compartments are lined in blue velvet plush fabric and contain:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4312\" data-start=\"4222\"\u003eCOLTS PATENT marked bullet mold (round and conical), with integrated casting stem nipper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4419\" data-start=\"4315\"\u003eBronze powder flask marked \u003cstrong data-end=\"4361\" data-start=\"4342\"\u003eE PLURIBUS UNUM\u003c\/strong\u003e, with Federal Eagles under thirteen stars on both sides\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4429\" data-start=\"4422\"\u003eOiler\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4456\" data-start=\"4432\"\u003eCap nipple cone wrench\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4518\" data-start=\"4459\"\u003eTWO lacquered percussion cap tins stamped \u003cstrong data-end=\"4516\" data-start=\"4501\"\u003eELEY LONDON\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4564\" data-start=\"4521\"\u003eCompartment containing round lead bullets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4652\" data-start=\"4567\"\u003eOriginal unopened package of paper cartridges for the pistol in 36\/100 inch Calibre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"4723\" data-start=\"4655\"\u003eTWO keys (one original and one modern production), both functional\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4821\" data-start=\"4725\"\u003eThe case may be locked; however, we do not recommend operating the lock while the lid is closed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"4875\" data-start=\"4828\"\u003e23rd Massachusetts Infantry Regiment History\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5104\" data-start=\"4877\"\u003eThe 23rd Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry was formed September 28, 1861, in Lynnfield, Massachusetts. It comprised companies from Essex, Bristol, Plymouth, Middlesex, and Worcester counties and was commanded by Col. John Kurtz. The regiment served in:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5171\" data-start=\"5133\"\u003eBurnside’s North Carolina Expedition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5219\" data-start=\"5174\"\u003eBattle of Roanoke Island (February 8, 1862)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5259\" data-start=\"5222\"\u003eBattle of New Bern (March 14, 1862)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5287\" data-start=\"5262\"\u003eGoldsborough Expedition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5313\" data-start=\"5290\"\u003eCharleston Expedition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5342\" data-start=\"5316\"\u003eBermuda Hundred Campaign\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5358\" data-start=\"5345\"\u003eCold Harbor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5382\" data-start=\"5361\"\u003eSiege of Petersburg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5410\" data-start=\"5385\"\u003eWyse Fork (March 8, 1865)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5520\" data-start=\"5412\"\u003eThe regiment was mustered out June 25, 1865, with final discharge July 5, 1865, in Readville, Massachusetts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5699\" data-start=\"5522\"\u003eLt. Creasey’s service falls squarely within the regiment’s early-war North Carolina operations, making this presentation pair directly tied to documented Union campaign history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"5723\" data-start=\"5706\"\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5763\" data-start=\"5727\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-end=\"5751\" data-start=\"5727\"\u003eYear of Manufacture:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1864–1865\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5784\" data-start=\"5766\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-end=\"5778\" data-start=\"5766\"\u003eCaliber:\u003c\/strong\u003e .36\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5822\" data-start=\"5787\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-end=\"5807\" data-start=\"5787\"\u003eAmmunition Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cap and Ball\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5858\" data-start=\"5825\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-end=\"5843\" data-start=\"5825\"\u003eBarrel Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 1\/2 inches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5895\" data-start=\"5861\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-end=\"5880\" data-start=\"5861\"\u003eOverall Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 9 1\/2 inches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5925\" data-start=\"5898\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-end=\"5909\" data-start=\"5898\"\u003eAction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single Action\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"5962\" data-start=\"5928\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-end=\"5944\" data-start=\"5928\"\u003eFeed System:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5-Shot Revolver\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"6012\" data-start=\"5969\"\u003eHistory of the Metropolitan Arms Company\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6256\" data-start=\"6014\"\u003eEstablished in February 1864 in New York, Metropolitan Arms Company produced copies of the Colt Model 1851 Navy, Model 1861 Navy, and Model 1862 Police revolvers. Principal officers included Samuel and William Syms (formerly of Blunt \u0026amp; Syms).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6460\" data-start=\"6258\"\u003eProduction (1864–1866) coincided with Colt’s manufacturing shutdown following the February 4, 1864 fire that destroyed much of the Hartford plant. During this period Metropolitan produced approximately:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6495\" data-start=\"6464\"\u003e6,000 copies of the 1851 Navy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6537\" data-start=\"6498\"\u003eFewer than 50 copies of the 1861 Navy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-end=\"6582\" data-start=\"6540\"\u003eApproximately 2,750 Pocket Police models\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6724\" data-start=\"6584\"\u003eThe company was not dissolved until 1920. Metropolitan revolvers were so close to Colt designs that they are often difficult to distinguish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-end=\"6777\" data-start=\"6731\"\u003eA True Civil War Officer’s Presentation Set\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7021\" data-start=\"6779\"\u003eThis is a rare opportunity to acquire a named and inscribed Civil War presentation pair of Metropolitan “Pocket Police” revolvers attributed to a documented Union officer, complete with period accessories, custom case, and research materials. An exceptional, one-of-a-kind Civil War officer’s revolver set — ideal for the advanced collector of U.S. Civil War arms and identified regimental artifacts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44655830728773,"sku":"ONAC25MA004","price":11995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/files\/151E34C1-3F2B-48D2-8A5F-AB55955E2D52.jpg?v=1772047285","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-u-s-civil-war-23rd-massachusetts-infantry-regiment-inscribed-presentation-cased-metropolitan-police-revolvers-to-lt-william-j-creasey-with-accessories-and-research","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}